Lifestyle Release: Escape to Romantic California Wine Country this Valentine's Day

January 27, 2011

SAN FRANCISCO – In a down economy, one of the first things couples often cut out of the budget is romance. Yet as Valentine’s Day draws near, the one thing they may yearn for most is reconnecting with their special someone.

To help couples renew their romance without breaking the bank, wine regions across California, the number one destination for wine and food travelers in the U.S., are offering great deals on romantic getaways this Valentine’s Day weekend and beyond. When exploring these packages, couples can learn more about Valentine’s Day events in California wine country by visiting: www.discovercaliforniawine.com/learn/februaryvalentines-day-wine-events.

NORTH COAST (Sonoma/Napa/Mendocino/Marin):

Avia Napa: Napa’s newest and chicest retreat is offering the “Ultimate Romance Package” in honor of Valentine’s Day, starting at just $469 a night for a Luxury Tub Suite. Package includes: tandem soaking tub and signature bath amenities, artisanal cheese and charcuterie plate paired with a bottle of O’Brien Estate Seduction Wine, which includes romantic poetry on the label. Guests also enjoy a private tour and tasting of the romantic O’Brien Estate Winery, as well as a spa treatment for two (one-hour candle-lit massage followed by a Chardonnay body wash rinse). Breakfast for two in the AVIA kitchen is also included. For those seeking a romantic dining experience, Chef Chris Aken of AVIA will prepare a three-course Valentine Dinner with optional wine pairings ($50 per person without wine, $75 per person with wine pairing). The menu is available February 11, 12, 18 and 19 during AVIA Kitchen dinner hours and reservations are recommended. Guests can book online at www.aviahotels.com or call the hotel directly at 707-224-3900. Package is available through 2011. The hotel is also offering an “Amore Package” for $179 per night, which includes Classic King accommodation and turn-down service with chocolate-covered strawberries for two.

Bear Flag Inn, Calistoga: “Valentine's Day Special” includes three nights for the price of two (rooms starting at $199, Cottage at $229 per night, winter rate) and complimentary bottle of California sparkling wine. Offer good Valentine's weekend, Feb 11-14, 2011. Call 800-670-2860 or visit www.bearflaginn.com.

Calistoga Ranch, Calistoga (Napa Valley): Valentine's Day luxury package starts at $895 per night ($400 savings) and includes: two nights in upgraded one-bedroom Spa Lodge (hot tub on the deck) room, intimate dinner for two at the Lakehouse (not including alcohol, taxes, gratuity), welcome amenity of California sparkling wine, special turn down gift and private Soak and Steam at the Bathhouse Spa. Based upon a two night stay cannot be combined with any other offers or packages. Call to Book 1-800-942-4220.

Case Ranch Inn, Forestville: The “Sweetheart Spectacular” offers Valentines a 50 percent discount on the third night (if you stay three nights over Valentine’s Day Weekend), plus a bottle of premium Sonoma County wine and local artisan chocolates. Package starts at $185 per night plus taxes. Offer must be requested at time of booking. www.caseranchinn.com.

Flamingo Hotel and Spa, Santa Rosa: Drive her wild in the wine country this Valentine’s Day with the “Rumble in the Jungle” Package with Safari West Wildlife Preserve. Starting at $412, it includes a night in the beautiful Flamingo Hotel and Spa, plus continental breakfast buffet for two people and health club admission passes. The package also offer two tickets to Safari West’s Outrageous Wildlife Courtship Safari – where animal experts will tour couples in an open-air safari vehicle, pointing out exotic creatures and their courting habits -- on Feb. 12 as well as a champagne reception, dinner and dance party. Based on double occupancy. Adults only. Offer good Feb. 11-14, 2011. To book call 800-848-8300; flamingoresort.com and/or 800-616-2695; safariwest.com).

Four Points by Sheraton, San Rafael: A short drive from Sonoma wine country, this hotel is offering a Valentine’s Day package starting at $149 for the first night. Includes Deluxe King Room, breakfast for two in bed (1 day - Breakfast in the restaurant for additional days), guaranteed late check-out, half-bottle of local champagne and local artisan chocolates, plus complimentary Roche Winery tasting for two. Couples who want to stay longer get a discounted $119 rate for additional nights. www.fourpoints.com/sanrafael.

Gaige House, Glen Ellen: Experience the romance of the Sonoma wine country in the Gaige House’s luxurious suites (Studio or Zen) with the “Work out the Kinks Romance Package.” Starting at a $664 rate, the offer gives couples a chance to reconnect with an indulgent 50-minute couple’s massage followed by a fabulous foot massage and plush house souvenir robes. Seven-day Cancellation Policy. Book on www.jdvhotels.com.

Be My Valentine Package - Book a king room and receive a welcome gift box of chocolate, and a four-course dinner for two in Nectar Restaurant, which serves great local wines. The package is $199 a night, plus tax. Book online at http://bit.ly/gWguAJ, or call Kristen at 707-569-5538.

Pamper Your Valentine Package - It's all about the pampering with this package. Book a king lanai room and receive a welcome gift box of chocolate, a four-course dinner for two in Nectar Restaurant, continental breakfast in bed for two, complete with mimosas. The package is $249 a night, plus tax. Book online at http://bit.ly/eb3v6h, or call Kristen at 707-569-5538.

Occidental Hotel, Occidental: Snuggle into Negri’s Occidental Hotel's “Two for One Valentine's Day Special,” which gives couples who book the night of February 14, 2011 at $89.95 the second night free in the heart of Sonoma wine country! This AAA multi-diamond-rated hotel is steps from Occidental's fine dining, eclectic shops, and hiking or cycling trails. Occidental Hotel is also close to world-class wineries, spas, championship golf courses, the spectacular Sonoma Coast, and the Russian River recreation region. Offer excludes suites and is good for telephone reservations only. Please mention "Two for One Valentine's Day Offer" when booking. Call 707-874-3623/877-867-6084 or visit www.occidentalhotel.com.

Raford Inn, Healdsburg: Couples get to stay and play in romantic Healdsburg with the Raford Inn’s “Valentine Sweetheart Deal.” Stay any two nights during the month of February and, in addition to any other posted special, the staff at Raford Inn will have chocolates and local champagne waiting in your room upon arrival. A great way to take advantage of this is to book the Wonderful Winter Special, where couples can stay any two weeknights, Sunday through Thursday, and receive the lowest rate of $155 for a queen room and $175 for a king. Offer good until Feb. 28. Call 800-887-9503 or visit www.rafordinn.com‎.

Silverado Resort and Spa, Napa: The “Create Your Own Romance” package lets guests create their own Valentine’s package throughout February. The package includes a one-bedroom Suite with late checkout, breakfast for two in The Grill, bottle of California sparkling wine upon arrival, bed side Rosebud Vase, and guest’s choice of one the following: 1) Two-50 minute massages and pedicures or Balloon Ride for two; 2) choice of two of the following: Dinner for two and one dozen red roses or Wine Train Lunch for two (Available Friday – Monday) or 4 hour private limo tour in Napa to include private tour and tasting at William Hill Winery. Package costs $849 Sunday through Thursday; $899 Friday and Saturday. Please call 800-532-0500 to book. Silverado seven-day cancellation policy applies.

The hotel is also offering a “Romance Package,” available all February and starting at $129 a night (Sunday through Thursday). It includes a one-night stay in a beautiful Junior Fireplace Suite plus 20 percent off all spa services and a $10 dining certificate to The Grill at Silverado (with a minimum $40 purchase). Weekend rate starts at $159 (Friday and Saturday) plus tax and resort fee. Offer good Feb. 1-28, 2011. Based upon availability. Reservations can be made by calling 800-532-0500 or visit www.silveradoresort.com.

The Auberge du Soleil, Rutherford (Napa Valley): The “Heart and Soul Valentine’s Day Package” gives couples who want to splurge the ultimate luxury this February. The package includes: one or two night stay in a Garden View King Room, special 6-course Chef’s Tasting Menu at our Michelin-starred restaurant (alcohol not included). After dinner guests will find their fireplace lit, romantic music turned on and candlelight filling the room, along with a complimentary “Romantic Napa Valley: An Insider’s Guide for Couples" book. Also includes bottle of regional sparkling wine and chocolate covered strawberries on arrival and breakfast for two each day. One night stay costs $1400 per couple (available only February 14), while a two-night stay costs $2170 per couple (available for arrival February13 and 14). Additional night at rack rate. Upgrades are available at an additional charge. All taxes and gratuities included. Subject to Availability at time of booking. To book this package and for more information about Auberge du Soleil, please call 707-963-1211.

SIERRA NEVADA MOUNTAINS

Black Bear Inn, Arnold:

For a special price of $599, the Valentine's Sweetheart Weekend
includes two-nights at the Black Bear Inn, a romantic dinner for two, and complimentary tasting for two at a local winery in Murphys. Chef Bruce will prepare a four-course gourmet meal to be served by candlelight on Saturday, February 12th. Call 209-795-8999 for details and to book this special weekend. Restrictions apply. Call 209-795-8999 or visit: www.arnoldblackbearinn.com.

Bridgehouse Bed & Breakfast, Redding: Enjoy a nice romantic getaway this Valentine’s weekend in downtown Redding at the Bridgehouse B&B with amazing views of the Shasta-Cascade area. Stay two nights in the King room for just $299 and receive a bottle of California wine and fresh flowers. Call 530-247-7177 or visit www.reddingbridgehouse.com.

Enchanted April Bed & Breakfast Inn, Pilot Hill: Celebrate Valentine’s Day all month with the “Valentine’s Holiday Package,” starting at just $150 per night in a deluxe room. Upon arrival guest rooms will be decorated with Valentine touches, such as a bottle of local champagne (or at your request a non-alcoholic beverage) that can be enjoyed in front of the romantic fireplace or in the spacious whirlpool tub by candlelight. Handmade chocolates, special gourmet breakfast and an optional in-room massage ($65) await, plus other surprises. Guests get a complimentary winery tour (by appointment) at Gold Hill Winery and a 30% discount on all champagne.

Murphys Inn Motel, Murphys: Taking advantage of the 15th Annual Presidents Day Wine Weekend in Calaveras County, the “Presidents Wine Weekend Package” gives couples two nights, two event passes, bottle of local white or red wine and two commemorative glasses, starting at $190. http://murphysinnmotel.com.

Murphys Suites, Murphys: Taking advantage of the 15th Annual Presidents Day Wine Weekend in Calaveras County, the “Presidents Wine Weekend Package” gives couples two nights, two event passes, bottle of local red or white wine and two commemorative glasses, starting at $230. http://murphyssuites.com/.

SAN JOAQUIN/SACRAMENTO VALLEYS:

Best Western - Royal Host Inn, Lodi: For the upcoming Wine & Chocolate weekend (Valentine’s Weekend), Best Western Royal Host Inn is offering rooms starting at $74.99. The rate includes an overnight stay in one of our guest rooms, free hot breakfast, free internet, and a guest welcome packet with area information. To book, call 209-369-8484. Package Booking code is "LCVBWEB" http://bestwesterncalifornia.com/hotels/best-weste.

Hampton Inn & Suites Lodi: Make this Valentine’s Day weekend one to remember with the “Wine and Chocolate Package,” which includes: a bottle of wine from a local winery, chocolates, map of Lodi wineries, free breakfast and late check out at 2 pm. Starting at a special rate of $99 plus tax in a standard room and $119 plus tax for a suite. Ask for the Valentine’s Day Special when booking (Valid Feb. 11-15, 2011). Lovers can take advantage of the Lodi Wine and Chocolate Festival that weekend. Call 209-369-2700 or visit www.lodisuites.hamptoninn.com.

Hilton Garden Inn Roseville: Celebrate the holiday with the “Romance Package,” which starts at $114 a night and includes: Early check-in, in-room sparkling California wine, chocolates, access to hotel fitness center, pool and whirlpool, full breakfast for two in the hotels’ designated restaurant, late check-out (available upon request) and a complimentary wine tasting on the Placer County Wine Trail. Package is based on availability and represents a $50 savings. Call 916-773-7171 or visit www.roseville.stayhgi.com.

Hyatt Place Roseville: Enjoy Valentine’s Day weekend with your sweetie at this beautiful new hotel, located next to the Westfield Galleria Roseville. Guests enjoy a bottle of Canvas by Mondavi wine and fresh flowers and a freshly cooked breakfast. Includes complimentary wine tasting on the Placer County Wine Trail. Book the Romantic Getaway package (rates starting from $109) by entering #89934 in the Corporate/Group Code box or click the "Special Offers" tab at the hotel home page. Call 916-781-6400 or visit www.hyattplacesacramentoroseville.com.

Inn at Locke House, Lockeford (just outside Lodi): This romantic historic inn is spicing up Valentine’s Day weekend with these packages:

“Weekend of Wine, Chocolate and Love Package” (February 11-13, 2011) -
Begin Valentine’s weekend with regional sparkling wine, a tray of “love”ly treats, and a bouquet of flowers (to take home) in your room your first night. Enjoy two days of tasting wines paired with chocolate at over 40 Lodi Appellation wineries. Your wine-chocolate experience includes a special “lovers” breakfast on Sunday. Two-night package (Fri & Sat or Sat & Sun) costs $455 for Main House and $625 for Water Tower Suite. May not be combined with any other special offer.

“Wake up in the Arms of Your Valentine - a February Celebration” --Your special one will be greeted with a split of regional sparkling wine, silk rose petals (to take home) on the bed, and tasty treats in your room upon arrival. Awaken to share a leisurely three-course breakfast before heading out to discover a treasure in the Delta and Lodi Wine Country. Rates start at $179 for the Main House and $269 for the Water Tower Suite $269. May not be combined with any other special offer. Call 209-727-5715 or visit www.theinnatlockehouse.com.

Larkspur Landing Roseville: Larkspur’s hotels “Touch of Romance" Package, starting at a $149 rate, includes overnight accommodations in a Studio Suite featuring the luxurious FeatherBorne® Bed, choice of California champagne or sparkling cider, box of chocolates and a long-stem rose, satin rose petals for your bed or bath, $40 gift certificate toward dinner at Il Fornaio, Healthy Start breakfast, late checkout and complimentary wine tasting on the Placer County Wine Trail. Please specify your beverage choice at the time you make your reservation. Late checkout is subject to availability. Please confirm with the Front Desk at check-in. Contact Front Desk for Reservations at 916-773-1717 or visit http://www.larkspurhotels.com/larkspur-landing/roseville/specials.

Lodi El Rancho Motel, Lodi: The property is offering special rates (starting at $45.99 for a single queen/king or $49.99 or a double queen room plus tax) for Wine & Chocolate Weekend, taking place Feb. 12-13, 2011. For reservations please call 209-368-0651.

SpringHill Suites, Roseville: The “Escape to Romance Package,” starting at $159.99 per night, includes box of premium chocolates, a single long stemmed rose, in-room California sparkling wine or cider upon arrival, access to the hotel fitness center, pool and jet-spa, complimentary full buffet breakfast, gift card for $50 towards dinner for two and late check out. Also includes complimentary wine tasting on the Placer County Wine Trail. Reservations must be made at least two days prior to arrival. Rates are subject to availability at time of booking. Call 916-782-2989 or visit www.marriott.com/sacsr.

LIVERMORE VALLEY

Doubletree Hotel Livermore: The hotel’s exclusive “Sweet Romance Getaway” package for Valentine’s Day, starting at $95 per night, includes: deluxe accommodations for two, regional sparkling wine in-room on arrival, full in-room breakfast for two (where applicable) or in the hotel restaurant, early check-in or late check-out (based on availability). Offer is good Feb.1-28, 2011. To book visit: this link.

Hilton Pleasanton at The Club: The “Valentine’s Day Package,” starting at $149 per night, includes complimentary access to ClubSport, Northern California's largest and most prestigious fitness facility as well as: four-course dinner for two in Player's Restaurant, one night guestroom accommodations, special in-room amenities, and full American breakfast for two. Good Feb. 1-27, 2011. To book the Valentine’s Day Package: click here.

CENTRAL COAST (Monterey, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara)

Bernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley: The “Chocolates & Sweethearts Package,” starting at $1,230, lets couples enjoy the romantic luxury in picturesque Carmel Valley this Valentine’s Day weekend. Bring your sweetheart for a three night’s stay in our luxurious accommodations (includes a complimentary wine grotto of Bernardus Wines) and experience our four-star Spa’s 100-minute Vineyard Romance Couple’s Treatment. Couples will also gain admittance for two into our exclusive culinary demonstration, “Sweets & Scents” on Feb. 12. During your stay, enjoy a $150 dining credit in a cozy booth in Wickets Bistro or for a private, romantic in-room meal. Package rates range from $1,230 to $1,830, and are valid for arrival dates Feb. 9-12, 2011. This package is based upon availability, and does not include tax, nightly Resort Fee, alcohol or gratuities. Call 888-648-9463, or visit www.bernardus.com.

Best West Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, San Simeon: Celebrate Valentine’s Day all year with the “Romantic Escape” package, starting at $602 winter midweek to $762 high season and most weekends plus taxes. This package is based two nights lodging in an ocean front Terrace room with fireplace and patio (double occupancy), two one-hour Diva Spa services (massage, mani/pedi, facial or hair), $50 of room service credit, and bottle of Central Coast white or red wine on night of arrival. Based on availability. All rates valid until December 23, 2011. A minimum seven-day advance notice is recommended to ensure tour or spa times. Packages must be guaranteed with a credit card (or pre-paid). Please call us at 800-826-8168 to learn more about the package and restrictions.

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, Shell Beach: Celebrate Valentine’s Day all month with the “Wine and Dine” package, which includes two nights in a luxury villa, a gourmet basket of local wine, cheese and fruit, breakfast each morning, four-hour wine tour of Edna Valley or Paso Robles, plus a three-course dinner for two in Lido Restaurant. Rates starting at $1270 per couple. www.TheDolphinBay.com or call 800-516-0112.

La Bellasera, Paso Robles: Revel in the romance at this charming luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country with the “Romance Package,” starting at $1,166.96 per couple. Enjoy two nights of deluxe accommodations in a King Whirlpool or King Fireplace room, fully stocked with romantic extras upon arrival. Also includes: welcome bottle of Tobin James Dream Weaver sparkling wine, one dozen roses, personal celebration cake, breakfast daily – in-room or in Enoteca, two one-hour spa treatments in the privacy of your guestroom or spa room, two La Bellasera signature bathrobes, two gourmet picnic box lunches and local winery maps, and concierge service to assist in planning your itinerary. Additional nights may be added onto the package at the Best Available Published Rate for that day. Offer must be mentioned at time of reservation; groups, corporate, or negotiated rates do not apply; not valid with other offers or previously booked reservations; blackout dates may apply; rate is based on double occupancy. To book this package call La Bellasera at 866- STAY-NOW or book online.

Oxford Suites, Pismo Beach: Enjoy Valentine’s Day all month with a “Romantic Wine Country Getaway,” starting at $99 per night, at this hotel, which is a close drive to the beach and Premium Outlets. Package includes: King Suite, complimentary wine tasting for two at three different wineries, bottle of champagne or wine (cabernet or chardonnay), assortment of decadent chocolates, complimentary DVD rental and a bag of popcorn, late check out at 1:00 pm, full hot breakfast buffet for two in our dining room and an evening reception featuring appetizers and beverages (excluding Sundays). Call hotel to book directly. Some restrictions and blackouts may apply. Package valid from February 4th –February 28th, 2011. www.oxfordsuitespismobeach.com.

Paso Robles Courtyard Marriott: This beautiful hotel is offering a “Valentine’s Treat” package, which starts at $350 and includes a special Valentine’s Day First Crush blending workshop for two plus two-night deluxe accommodations. Learn about the art of blending wine, sharpen your palate and gain a new understanding of why blending is an important part of the winemaking process. You’ll also enjoy special wine and cheese and chocolate pairings, and receive a commemorative bottle of First Crush wine with perfectly paired chocolates and one commemorative gift package per couple. Valid Feb. 11-Feb 14, 2011. Visit the site.

Paso Robles Inn, Paso Robles: Celebrate Valentine’s Day all year with the “Passion in Paso Package,” which starts at $288 and includes: one-night accommodations in a Deluxe Spa room, chocolate covered strawberries, basket of fresh, seasonal fruits and a bottle of delicious regional sparkling wine upon arrival, dinner for two at our cozy and acclaimed Steakhouse, and private in-room mineral springs hot tub. Available through 12/31/2011. Starting at $288. Book at
http://booking.ihotelier.com/istay/istay.jsp?hotelid=6528&ProdID=59903&ReferID=35447&gohome=2. The inn also offers, for an additional $298 and up, the Wine Adventure Touring package, offers a semi-customized touring route that identifies your wine preferences and what you'd like to learn about the Paso Robles wine region. Package is based on two adults. Each additional adult is $100 per person.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa: This renowned romantic wine country retreat is offering a “Valentine’s Day Getaway Special,” starting at $169 per night plus tax, valid Feb. 13-17 (Sunday – Thursday). Package includes: overnight Stay in Luxury Deluxe Villa with Jacuzzi, fireplace, and private patio, scrumptious Mimosa breakfast for two in Vineyard Rose Restaurant, bottle of wine in Villa, tasting flight of wine for two in tasting room, plus a discount passport booklet filled with property freebies and discounts. Price based on double occupancy and subject to restrictions. Not valid with group reservations. Note booking code “LOVE” when making reservation at http://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=17339&rateplanid=770061.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa: Create unforgettable romantic wine country memories with the “Villa & Hot Air Balloon Package,” starting at $479 per night Sunday through Thursday and $589 per night Friday through Saturday. This unique luxury getaway includes: one luxurious night for two in a Villa in the Vineyards, bottle of pre-selected award winning wine in the room, hot air balloon ride for two with California Dreamin' with a champagne toast and continental breakfast at Journey's End. Good throughout February and subject to availability and restrictions. www.wineresort.com.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa: Celebrate Valentine’s Day all month with the “Villa, Lunch & Wine Tasting Tour Package,” which starts at $399 per night Sunday thru Thursday and $499 per night Friday thru Saturday and includes: Temecula Wine Country Picnic Tour Package for two, an all-inclusive insider's look at wine country. Also includes: one luxurious night for two in a Villa in the vineyards, bottle of pre-selected award-winning wine in the room, hosted transportation throughout wine country, aboard the comfort of a spacious Grapeline air-conditioned shuttle coach and value passport for two, good for discounts on merchandise and outside wine purchases at various wineries. www.wineresort.com.

Temecula Creek Inn: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the “Date Night Package,” starting at $199 per night. Package includes: one night accommodations, bottle of local champagne on arrival, chocolate-dipped strawberries, wine country dinner for two and waived wine corkage fee for dinner. Offer good Feb. 1 – 28, 2011 and subject to availability. temeculacreekinn.com‎.

For more information on Valentine’s Day themed events in California wine country events, as well as details on California’s diverse varietals and wine regions, go to www.discovercaliforniawine.com.

Please note that the above offers are subject to availability, restrictions and may change, so we recommend verifying details with the hotels before booking. Packages including wine are for guests 21 years of age and older.